If you’re looking for a hearty, flavorful, and completely plant-based meal, sweet potato black bean burgers are exactly what you need. These burgers are packed with protein, fiber, and rich flavors that will satisfy your taste buds without weighing you down. You don’t need to fry them, as they’re baked to perfection, keeping them lighter while maintaining a satisfying texture. You’ll enjoy how easy they are to prepare, making them a perfect option for lunch, dinner, or even meal prep for the week.
Why We Love Sweet Potato Black Bean Burgers
There’s so much to love about sweet potato black bean burgers. First, they’re incredibly versatile. You can enjoy them on a bun with all your favorite toppings, serve them over a salad, or even turn them into sliders for a fun appetizer. They’re perfect for a casual family dinner, meal prep for the week, or a picnic in the park.
Secondly, these burgers are both filling and nutritious. The sweet potatoes provide complex carbohydrates and essential vitamins, while black beans are packed with protein and fiber to keep you full longer. This combination makes the burgers not only tasty but also balanced and nourishing.
Another reason to love this recipe is the simplicity. You only need one bowl for most of the preparation, minimizing cleanup and making the cooking process straightforward. Plus, the spices—smoked paprika, chili powder, and garlic—add depth of flavor without overpowering the natural ingredients. These burgers are proof that plant-based meals can be hearty, delicious, and satisfying.
Ingredients for Sweet Potato Black Bean Burgers
Creating these burgers is simple, and you likely have most of the ingredients on hand. Here’s what you’ll need for four generous servings:
- 1 large sweet potato (13-14 ounces)
- 1 15-ounce can of black beans, drained, rinsed, and patted dry
- ½ small white onion, grated on a box grater
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 ½ cups Panko bread crumbs
- For serving: brioche buns, store-bought guacamole, vegan mayonnaise, and red onion slices
How to Make Sweet Potato Black Bean Burgers
Making these burgers is easier than you might think, and the process is satisfying because everything comes together in one bowl. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you create perfect sweet potato black bean patties:
- Preheat your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit. Prepare a baking sheet by either spraying it generously with cooking spray or brushing it lightly with oil. This ensures your burgers won’t stick while baking.
- Peel and dice your sweet potato into small cubes. Place them in a saucepan and cover with just enough water to prevent burning. Bring the water to a boil and then reduce to a simmer. Cook until the sweet potato pieces are tender, which should take about 15 minutes. Drain the water and let the sweet potatoes cool slightly.
- In a large mixing bowl, add the cooked sweet potatoes. Drain and rinse the black beans thoroughly, then add them to the same bowl. Using a fork or potato masher, mash the beans into the sweet potatoes. Don’t worry if the mixture is chunky; this texture is perfect for your burgers.
- Grate the half white onion directly into the bowl with the sweet potato and bean mixture. Stir it in thoroughly to ensure even distribution of flavor.
- Add the garlic powder, smoked paprika, chili powder, and salt. Stir well to combine, making sure the spices are evenly spread throughout the mixture.
- Finally, add the Panko bread crumbs and mix until the mixture holds together. The breadcrumbs help the patties maintain their shape while baking.
- Flatten the mixture slightly in the bowl, then divide it into four equal portions. Roll each portion into a ball, then gently press each one into a patty shape, about the size of your palm.
- Place the patties on your prepared baking sheet and bake for 15 minutes. Flip each patty carefully and bake for an additional 15 minutes. The exterior should become slightly crispy, while the interior remains soft and tender.
Once baked, your sweet potato black bean burgers are ready to be served. You can enjoy them immediately, or keep them refrigerated for later use. This method ensures you get a warm, flavorful, and satisfying plant-based burger every time.
How to Serve Sweet Potato Black Bean Burgers
Serving these burgers is where you can get creative. The classic way is on toasted brioche buns with guacamole on one side and vegan mayonnaise on the other. Add slices of red onion and fresh lettuce for extra crunch and flavor. This combination is perfect for a lunch or dinner that feels indulgent yet wholesome.
If you prefer a lighter meal, serve the patties over a bed of fresh greens with your favorite dressing. You can even slice them up and add them to grain bowls for a filling and balanced meal. Roasted vegetables, quinoa, or brown rice pair well with the flavors of the burgers.
For a fun twist, turn the burgers into sliders for parties or casual gatherings. Mini buns, a dollop of guacamole, and some pickled onions make for a perfect appetizer. No matter how you choose to serve them, these burgers are versatile enough to suit any occasion.
Expert Tips for Sweet Potato Black Bean Burgers
To make sure your burgers turn out perfect every time, here are some expert tips:
- When mashing the sweet potatoes and black beans, leave some chunks for texture. Over-mashing can make the mixture too soft and difficult to shape.
- Make sure to drain and pat dry the black beans before adding them. Excess moisture can make the mixture too wet to hold its shape.
- If your mixture feels too sticky, add a little more Panko bread crumbs until it holds together easily.
- Don’t skip preheating the oven. A properly heated oven ensures the patties cook evenly and develop a slightly crispy exterior.
- For extra flavor, consider adding fresh herbs such as chopped cilantro or parsley. These complement the sweet potato and black beans beautifully.
- Let the baked patties cool slightly before serving. This helps them firm up and reduces the risk of breaking when you handle them.
Following these tips will elevate your burgers and make the cooking process smoother, ensuring you get a consistently delicious result.
How to Store Sweet Potato Black Bean Burgers
You can store these patties either before or after baking. Raw patties should be tightly wrapped and stored in the fridge for up to three days. This allows you to prepare them in advance and bake them when needed.
After baking, store leftover patties in a food storage container in the fridge. They will stay fresh for up to three days and can be reheated in the oven or on a stovetop pan.
If you want to store them for longer, both raw and cooked patties can be frozen. Wrap them in freezer-safe bags, preferably double-wrapped to prevent freezer burn, and store for up to three months. To use, thaw them in the fridge overnight and bake or reheat as usual. Proper storage ensures you always have a convenient, nutritious meal ready to go.
Variations of Sweet Potato Black Bean Burgers
Sweet potato black bean burgers are versatile, and there are many ways to tweak the recipe for different flavors:
- Spicy Version: Add finely chopped jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
- Cheesy Twist: Mix in some shredded vegan cheese for extra richness.
- Herb-Infused: Incorporate fresh herbs like cilantro, parsley, or chives for a fresh flavor boost.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs instead of Panko for a gluten-free version.
- Sweet and Savory: Add a tablespoon of maple syrup or agave to the mixture for a subtle sweetness that complements the savory flavors.
- Nutty Texture: Mix in finely chopped nuts or seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds to add crunch and extra nutrients.
These variations allow you to customize your burgers to your taste and dietary preferences, ensuring you never get bored of this healthy and satisfying meal.
FAQ About Sweet Potato Black Bean Burgers
Can I make sweet potato black bean burgers ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the patties ahead of time. Keep them tightly wrapped in the fridge for up to three days before baking.
Can I freeze these burgers?
Absolutely. Both raw and cooked patties can be frozen for up to three months. Just double-wrap them in freezer-safe bags and thaw in the fridge overnight before baking or reheating.
Are these burgers high in protein?
Yes, thanks to black beans, these burgers are a good source of plant-based protein. They also provide fiber and complex carbohydrates from sweet potatoes, making them a balanced meal.
Can I bake them without breadcrumbs?
Breadcrumbs help bind the patties. If you skip them, consider using ground oats or cooked quinoa as a substitute to help maintain structure.
What can I serve with sweet potato black bean burgers?
These burgers pair well with toasted buns, guacamole, vegan mayonnaise, fresh vegetables, or as part of grain bowls and salads. You can also serve them with roasted vegetables or a side of sweet potato fries.
How do I make the burgers crispy?
Bake them in a preheated oven at 425°F and make sure to flip them halfway. Brushing a little oil on the patties before baking can help achieve a crisp exterior.
Are sweet potato black bean burgers vegan?
Yes, this recipe is fully plant-based and vegan-friendly, perfect for anyone following a vegan diet.
Sweet Potato Black Bean Burgers
Equipment
- Baking Sheet
- Mixing Bowl
- Saucepan
- Fork or potato masher
Ingredients
- 1 large sweet potato (13-14 ounces)
- 1 can black beans (15 ounces, drained and rinsed)
- 1/2 small white onion grated
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 2 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 1/2 cups Panko bread crumbs
- As needed brioche buns for serving
- As needed store-bought guacamole for serving
- As needed vegan mayonnaise for serving
- As needed red onion slices for serving
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Prepare a baking sheet with cooking spray or a light brush of oil.
- Peel and dice the sweet potato into small cubes. Boil in a saucepan until tender, about 15 minutes. Drain and let cool.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked sweet potatoes and black beans. Mash them together until slightly chunky.
- Grate the half onion directly into the bowl and mix well.
- Add garlic powder, smoked paprika, chili powder, and salt. Stir to combine.
- Finally, add the Panko bread crumbs and mix until the mixture holds together.
- Divide the mixture into four equal portions and shape into patties.
- Place the patties on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 15 minutes. Flip and bake for an additional 15 minutes.
- Serve immediately on brioche buns with guacamole, vegan mayonnaise, and red onion slices.
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